OpenMSP
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Zeek

Network Management and Monitoring

Open Source
Free Tier
Self-hosted
OpenMSP Score
56
40
Reddit Impact Score
Github Score
330M
7KStars
1KForks
21KCommits
OtherLicense
Jul 7, 2026Last commit

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Open source network security monitoring tool that provides visibility into network traffic More detailed information about this vendor will be added soon.
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Key Features

Real-time Network Traffic Analysis

Passively analyzes network traffic in real-time, capturing high-fidelity transaction logs and providing deep insights into network activity without disrupting traffic flow

Comprehensive Protocol Support

Supports analysis of 70+ log files by default and tracks 3,000+ network events across various protocols including HTTP, DNS, SSL, SMTP, FTP, and more

Custom Scripting Language

Features a powerful domain-specific scripting language that allows users to create custom detection rules, workflows, and analysis capabilities tailored to specific network environments

Extensive Logging Capabilities

Generates detailed transaction logs, file contents, and customizable outputs in various formats (TSV, JSON) suitable for manual review or integration with SIEM systems

Open Source Flexibility

Fully open source under Apache 2.0 license with 260+ community-contributed packages and active development supported by the Zeek community and Corelight

Pros and Cons

Pros

Zero Cost Open Source

Completely free to use with full functionality, no licensing costs or vendor lock-in

Deep Network Visibility

Provides unparalleled visibility into network traffic with detailed protocol analysis and transaction logging

Highly Customizable

Powerful scripting language allows complete customization of detection rules and analysis workflows

Proven Track Record

Over 20 years of development, 10,000+ deployments worldwide, and federal R&D backing

SIEM Integration Ready

Outputs are designed for easy integration with security information and event management systems

Cons

Steep Learning Curve

Requires significant expertise in networking and security principles to effectively deploy and manage

Limited Out-of-Box Functionality

Minimal functionality without significant configuration and customization work

Resource Intensive

Can be demanding on system resources, especially when processing high-volume network traffic

No Commercial Support

Relies on community support, though commercial support is available through Corelight partnership

Complex Setup Process

Installation and initial configuration can be complex for organizations without deep technical expertise

Feature Comparison

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Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

OpenMSP is The MSP Knowledge Hub & Community Platform designed specifically for Managed Service Providers seeking to optimize their technology stack, reduce vendor costs, and discover open-source alternatives. We combine a comprehensive vendor directory, open-source solution catalog, and integrated community discussions to help MSPs make informed decisions.
Yes, completely free. Browse vendors and tools, read comparisons, and join community discussions - no cost, no registration required. OpenMSP is community-supported and focused on empowering MSPs to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency through open-source technology.
We help MSPs identify cost-effective alternatives to expensive commercial solutions, provide transparent vendor information, and connect you with proven open-source alternatives. Our platform enables MSPs to make informed decisions about their technology investments.
No account required for browsing vendors, reading comparisons, or accessing community content. Creating a free account with SSO (Microsoft, Google, or Slack) allows you to participate in discussions and save your favorite tools.

Platform Information

OpenMSP is currently community-supported. We focus on providing value to the MSP community first. Any future monetization will keep the core platform free for MSPs while maintaining our independence and commitment to unbiased information.
We focus exclusively on MSP needs with transparent vendor information and open-source alternatives. No vendor partnerships or sponsored listings - just honest, community-driven information to help MSPs make better technology decisions. Our biggest value is our community where MSPs help each other with questions, setup guidance, and sharing real-world experiences.
Our community of MSP professionals helps verify and update information. We also maintain direct research on tools and vendors to ensure accuracy. Community members can report outdated information, and we work to keep everything current.
OpenMSP was founded by Michael Assraf, who has extensive experience in the MSP industry and product leadership. As the former CEO & Founder of Vicarius, Michael grew a startup from $0 to $9M ARR with 500+ customers and deep experience working with MSPs, partners, and fundraising. OpenMSP represents his commitment to empowering the MSP community through better technology decisions and cost optimization.

Open-Source Tools & Alternatives

We assess tools based on active development, community size, documentation quality, production deployments by MSPs, and available support options. Tools must meet strict criteria for reliability and enterprise readiness.
Many open-source projects offer multiple support options including community forums, commercial support from vendors, professional services, and our community discussions where experienced MSPs share implementation guidance.